EXTRA IMPORTANT INFO: In the UK and USA that is 37,500 miles - For the rest of the World that's 60,000 kilometres - for the life of the motorbike. So you will continue to receive a replacement drive shaft at 60K km / 37,500 miles for the life of the motorbike. This is important news. If you have any concerns about your drive shaft, your local BMW dealership can perform a workshop test using special testing equipment. This test is not automatically performed unless you request it AND have concerns about wear / vibration. Talk to your dealership, they are there to help you. Also the driveshaft service and re-grease is sometimes offered to customers free of charge but sometimes you have to pay for it. I think !!! it is dependant on the country in which you live and the model of motorbike you own, so again I suggest you talk to your local dealership. When I have additional "Confirmed / official" news I will add it here and in the video description Regards Carl
Don’t know that I’ve ever heard of any vehicle manufacturer preemptively addressing such a huge issue. As a new R 1250 GS owner I’m preemptively relieved BMW has straight forwardly set forth a plan of action. Many thanks to this wonderful Chanel for the wealth of information provided.
@justthewayitis As nice as it is, that BMW are changing shafts for free, I expect there is a very good legal reason behind this change of course. Those shafts are £700-£800 to buy (obviously a lot less for BMW) plus labour charge to change it. With many, many thousands of bikes involved, this must be costing the a huge amount of money. They have obviously done the usual Cost/Benefit calculation and decided this is the cheapest or safest option.
Sorry but the dealer has nothing to do with it I went direct to B.M.W. firstly told to get lost by a minor so tried to get to a senior manager who would not talk to me so down a few cogs so dealt with that individual They simply tried to get me to go through so many hoops even I gave up but the complaint was a serious one fuel flow into the control unit could be a fatal issue did they care no they did not so you stick to your Bema and good luck at least I can sleep at night knowing I have said what needed to be said They like most European companies don't give a dam at least the Japs do care !! Rant over !!@@alexstan5358
I recently bought a 2014 r1200rt from an independent dealer. It was in good condition with 44,000 miles on it with part service history. I took it to my local bmw dealer to see if it had any recalls outstanding they said it needed improved circlips on the footrests, and the drive shaft + shaft housing needed inspection. They changed the circlips and fitted the drain valve to the driveshaft housing, + they fitted a new driveshaft. I think that is great service they also gave it a complete health check which it passed with no issues at no cost to me I also got a ride r1300gs a great bike but I don't have that sort of free cash at the moment also lots of coffee and cookies whats not to like.😊
Have exactly the same year and model. Only 20k miles on mine when I bought from Honda dealer and I got all the above done too. They even cleaned the bike after. I love their waiting room with free hot chocolate and biscuits and a TV. It actually got rid of a problem for a little while, which has now come back again.... at low speed, with the clutch in I rev the engine it feels like it's trying to bite and I get a knocking in the shaft. They told me nothing is wrong but I've never known any other bike do this and I've had over 20.
Good to hear you enjoyed the service quality, but the issue you described doesn’t sound normal, perhaps go to a different dealer and try a different bike and see if it’s the same. That would be my next step. Carl 🙋🏻♂️
@@justthewayitis Right? Mechanics always fob me off as if I'm imagining a problem, until it gets severe and I say "told you so". I mean it's been doing it for 3 years now and nothing has broken, it's just changed the way I ride. I no longer rev my bike with the clutch in at low speeds.
I have just bought a new bmw1250 gs adventure k51 it’s nice to know when it reaches the mileage it will get replaced . Thank you so much for letting us know. You cannot fault BMW for the after care. At the end of the day you do pay a lot of money for your BMW. Any other bike manufacturer would have done there best to make excuses not to change them 👍👍
You need to study the history of BMW Motorcycle mechanical failures. They were notorious for refusing to address known issues, including driveshaft problems, going back to the late 1990s and early 2000s. The customer was completely on their own. The repair cost was often times more than the value of the motorcycle.
Thank you so much for this video notification! My local dealer here in Oregon, US just slid in a new drive shaft on my 2016 RT for no charge at 98,000 miles. Sweet.
Interesting. Last year I brought my bike in for service 2022 R 1250 GS 40th Anniversary. About 9,000 miles. They stress tested the driveshaft. Told me it did not meet the standard and they installed a new one at no additional charge. (I dont consider anything free when you look at the original price of the bike. They way mine was built is was $28K so as far as I'm concerned I should have a life time of free parts whenever I need them. LOL that said the bike is PHENOMINAL!!!
Thank you for your complete clarification. I have a 2020 R1250RT purchased new. I had the first three services done by BMW but now the warranty is up, I will be doing it all myself. I had contacted the dealer at the end of last year and they confirmed the replacement shaft FOC at 37000miles, I just assumed I would have to continue having the bike serviced by them so great news from you on that score....imagine getting free chain and sprockets for life! I had checked my driveshaft last year at around 18000miles given all the scare stories regarding spline rusting etc. Luckily, mine was OK but the shaft did just pull straight off the gearbox end so I removed the shaft from the tunnel to give everything a good inspection. The reason the shaft came off the gearbox end was because there was no circlip on the shaft even though the groove was machined for it. I had a thorough search of all the boots and the tunnel to make sure it hadn't become dislodged but found nothing. Reading on the net suggested others had this same issue suggesting BMW had decided the clip wasn't needed. I reassembled everything and have subsequently reached over 20000miles without issue. Do you know if the circlip should be fitted or not? Thanks again for your excellent video's. Cheers Dave
Hi Dave, it’s called a snap clip and I think the part number is 33 73 8 556 245 but best you check that with your dealership. The snap clip is used on the gearbox end to help maintain the shaft in position. The shaft movement (lateral movement) takes place at the drive hub. This is the area that needs to be really clean, free of rust and well greased. You could clarify with your local dealer, speak to one of the technicians if you can, they are normally very friendly. Carl
I wish it were that easy. I have a 2014 BMW RT with 120,000 miles and just got a free I-Level upgrade in the US. My local BMW dealer told me that I didn't qualify for this service bulletin. 😥 Update: After calling BMW North America and returning to my local dealership, I finally got the approval to get a replacement final drive. Thanks for the tip. 😁
@@justthewayitis The 2014 RT is a K52 model. My local BMW dealer made me aware of a new I-Level upgrade K001-23-11-510 that they installed for free. I almost suspect that BMW might want to fix this issue this way in the US.
The K52 will receive a replacement drive shaft after 60,000 km if your dealership is telling you it doesn’t apply to your bike, contact BMW NA and complain . This is a global service notification and your motorbike is covered 👍
Great video! I tend to buy older BMW motorcycles after others have absorbed the depreciation and added thousands in farkles. If I end up buying one of these models I now know to check with my local dealer to make sure the driveshaft is tip top. BMW stands behind their products. I had the failed fuel strip replaced under warranty on my 2013 1200R in 2023....ten years after the bike was made.
Hi Chad, thank you 🙏 for your feedback much appreciated. Yes buying used can save £$€, and can make ownership a more enjoyable experience. The dealership are very good and support is generally excellent. Thank you for sharing. Best wishes Carl
Are you for real its simple.Sub standard quality at stupid prices they are just watching their backs trust me I have been kicked into touch by these cowboys/women Never ever again will I buy into this so so over rated brand only an opinion but concluded by poor service from this over rated company !!!!!!!!!!!!
Can confirm as well. Recently purchased a used ex Police RT-P. Needed a new clutch as it was starting to slip under load up hill. Took the bike to Brown Motor Works in Pomona, California. Dealer advised me the bike was due for a driveshaft replacement, and it would be covered by BMW. Many thanks for the information.
Hi Daniel, thank you for sharing your story, many video viewers seem to think it’s not true… which is shame, as this is important news for us all. Greatly appreciate 👍 Kindest regards Carl
Hello Tod, and welcome to the channel, one of my riding buddies has the RS and he loves his too. Beautiful bike. Thank you for leaving a comment 👍 Carl
I was involved with BMW for over 20 years and they have always had issues with driveshafts/bearings. A driveshaft is NOT a service item, and you would think that making bikes with driveshafts for over 100 years they would have got it right by now. I don’t recall any other brand having issues like this. Honda Pan European, many Moto Guzzis, Yamaha Super Tenere or Triumph 1200 models don’t seem to to have any issues.
Just stumbled across this post....thank you so much for taking the time and effort to post this your a proper gent and im sure the bmw community thanks you ( 1200rt owner)
Always been impressed with BMW warranty service. In 2005 i bought a new k1200s and rode it till 2012. In 5th year of ownership the entire clutch assy failed. BMW provided a new assy with the deal i pay for installation. This is in Canada. Currently ride an indian challenger. Same excellent warranty support. I'd buy another BMW in a heartbeat
Thank you very much for the heads up Carl. I had serviced my driveshaft the other year when I stumbled on a bunch of videos of rusty splines. Mine were perfect but I redid everything. I got the notification from BMW about condensation and was going to have that done in the coming months. I’m not quite at 36,000 miles yet but hoping the dealership will do both at the same time. It’s a 2 hour trip for me (1 way). Again, thanks so much for posting.
Hi Dana, that sounds like a great plan, one trip and everything Is taken care of. You could call the dealership and ask if it’s possible to do both now, most dealership are very friendly and they will be well aware of the driveshaft replacement program. Carl
Thanks for the update but let me enquire...Should the driveshaft fail before the 60k km ie the original or replacement driveshaft will BMW replace and repair any other damage caused by the failure for free?
I'm still a fan. My dealership in British Columbia, Canada, will be replacing my cardan shaft on March 1. As you said, Carl, no charge to me. I have 128,000 km on my owned since new 2018 RT. I have regularly lubed the splines and inspected the u-joints. No issues on my bike. Cheers!
Great video Carl. Thanks for the information. Credit to BMW. My current K50 GS is my 5th GS that I've owned. Well over 300,000km (combined) covered by those bikes. Happy to say, no final drive issues at all. However, a free replacement shaft at 60,000km will be welcome. Cheers from 🇦🇺
Thanks so much for this info. I am here in Australia and own a 2014 BMW R1200RT which I purchased from new. The bike so far has done less then 10.000km. Yes I know...pathetic, but Life/Work/Injury(s) had a fair bit to do with it. Mine also had the original recall within just a few months of ownership performed, regarding the suspension issue. I was actually going to do the original driveshaft inspection and I have the tools and equipment to do so. I might still just do the visual with an inspection camera and see what the condition is. I have got the special (very expensive grease) to lubricate the splines, but also the grease to lubricate/seal the rubber boots. I wait for 6 months and see if I get any notifications from BMW. My bike is and always has been garaged and it has seen maybe 3~4 trips that encountered rain, nor do I use a pressure washer when cleaning it. So it will be interesting to see the condition of the splines and shaft.
Hi Alf, you might in light of what I have shared, like to think about taking your RT in for this inspection and grease up, if there is a worn shaft in your bike you would receive a new one. Carl
Thanks to your TH-cam channel I learned about BMW's campaign to replace the cardan shaft. I saw it on Thursday, I called BMW on Friday and today I have installed my new cardan shaft and the drainage system with its rubber plug. My GS ADV LC from 2015 has 99860km. They also informed me that at 120,000km and 180,000km they will change my cardam again, completely free of charge. It was all very easy and thanks to you and your excellent work today I have a smile from ear to ear! Thank you so much mate✌️ sending big hugs from Altafulla Spain
Hi Walter, I’m really delighted that your 2015 GS has received a new driveshaft, without cost, and they have treated you well, and have also done the recall modification. I would like to share that hearing stories like yours is the reason why I make videos for TH-cam, I feel that if a video helps just 10 people my goal is achieved. I know my channel will never be a huge success, but I’m completely fine knowing this. Thank you for taking the time to share, and to hear your smiling from ear to ear is perfect. Wishing you many happy km ahead this summer. Sincerely Carl
I have been following your TH-cam channel for a long time because I like how you address topics related to the world of motorcycles. Your contribution is really professional, direct and elegant! Thank you very much for everything you do ✌️
This is all fantastic - I would note that my drive shaft on my R1200RS failed at 70,000K's - made a claim on BMW but they wouldn't come to the party, in fact they were quite brusque in their comments in this respect and still after a fair bit of correspondence they continued to hold their ground in their refusal re compensation. Now go some 12 months down the track and I found a friend had his driveshaft replaced at 90,000K's under warranty. I again approached BMW and after a fair bit of to and froing they agreed to meet the replacement cost, not including any labour costs involved. To say I was unhappy about their treatment of my situation in this regard would be a great understatement, particularly now as they try to grandstand with their current stance.
Hi Jerry, I’ve heard lots of similar stories, very disappointing. Thank you for sharing your experience. I understand that some owners are unhappy about earlier events… we can’t change that. But moving forward it is good to see a change and a decision to cover all 5 models. Kind regards Carl
Very good news. I was originally told by a Canadian service tech here in BC Canada that my 2021 K52 RT (22000kms) did not meet the criteria for even the inspection or the drain hole. I will be doing a revisit soon to the service dept. It will be interesting to hear, officially, what they recommend now. Thank you for the information.
Hi Jimmy, thank you 🙏, and your K52 is included in the free driveshaft replacement program once you reach 60k, hopefully they will agree to do the inspection and test. Best wishes Carl
Thanks for bringing us these notifications and explaining them so well. What is still somewhat confusing is that BMW are now admitting the splines need to be lubed to a schedule - which they didn't used to, now say you SHOULD have it done, and at your own expense, but that they will in any case give you a free replacement shaft drive even if you don't lube, whenever it fails or at 48K miles. Some people say you should do the splines as soon as you buy a new bike because they come out of the factory insufficiently lubed. It seems to me they should be offering a free spline lube in the first instance. Owners only benefit from this plan if they happen to own a bike passing the 48K mile mark. If you are travelling the world even on a newish bike you'd be well advised to get the splines lubed - at your own expense, it seems. I agree they are 'doing the right thing' here, admitting to a weakness in the bike and addressing it, but not, in my view, in an entirely logical way.
Hi Dave, yes they could do more, but what they have done retrospectively on this occasion is actually very good. Especially when you take into account its ALL the road series as well ( R, RT and RS ) Carl
My 2014 90k km GSA just came out of a stator replacement service with a new driveshaft a week ago. It was nice to see since they were repeatedly short on parts from Germany to Canada to carry out the previous service action.
Many thanks for the heads up. Having just taken possession of a low-mileage 21 plate GS, this is good to know. Also looking forward to your Weiser Technik update video... 👍
Thank you so much for this much welcome update. I have the 2023 R1250GS TE, Not sure if K50 or not. My main gripe is The Gold Spoked Wheels. I should have stuck with the original Cast Wheels. I don't venture off road and find these a real pain to keep clean. Thanks again
I've got gold spoke wheels, I see a lot of people moaning about cleaning them. Like Carl says, small brush good cleaner and patience. I find it therapeutic 😅
@@koop5365 Mine is 2023 GSA in almost 4K miles 7 months old had bath yesterday. I mostly wipe the bugs from the front end. But I do detail my Harley often.
I have the same bike and gold wheels, I don’t find it an issue at all keeping them clean? I also have a second GS with black rims and stainless spokes, and that’s the same. No issue. Maybe get a cleaning system that makes it easier?
Hey Carl! As always, very clear and informative videos. Congrats! Just one clarification,pls. Where can I get official info online about this shaft drive replacement, just in case my service shop is "uninformed"?
Hi Duarte, they will already be fully aware and up to speed. The systems the dealerships use are linked to BMW so it’s not possible for them not to know. The announcement came out in October 2023. The number I have on the screen is the official information bulletin that all dealers will already have. Dealerships around the world are already replacing drive shafts. Kind regards Carl
The water in the swinging arm wasn’t condensation, it was caused by people pressure washing their bikes and blasting water past the gaiters. Hence the fitting of a drain plug so the water could get out. I grease the splines annually and haven’t had any problems but it’s nice to know I’ll be getting a new shaft anyway.
I had my 2020 GSA in for service/inspection last summer for the shaft recall. It failed the instrumentation test at 17K miles on the odometer and the shaft was replaced. At the time my dealer experienced newer model bikes failing at 4K miles and older bikes passing at 40K miles, although bikes that exceeded 37K miles had their shafts automatically replaced. Go figure. I’m just glad BMW finally acknowledged a replacement interval.
You hit the nail on the head "ALL THE RE CALLS " Shame that they did not see me right with the on going fuel pump issues CHEAP PLASTIC THAT LEAKS FUEL INTO THE CONTROOL UNIT Bloody death trap !!!
Hi I have a GS 1200 k51. I've had the hole drilled by BMW. But I was wondering what you still be entitled to the free drive shaft if it breaks down before the 60k. ? Love your channel ❤
Serviced my R1200GS in Poland about 2 years ago. It was still well below 60000 km but the workshop tested my driveshaft and decided it needs to be replaced. It was done free og charge.
The shaft will be replaced for free for first 60 thousands kilometer or every 60 thousands km? Or for the next 60k kms I need to pay after the first replacement?
My 1200rs just got it's driveshaft replaced at 60k Km by the dealer. The mechanic found nothing wrong with the old driveshaft. I still appreciate it ofc 😂
@ckkrons2338 : Hi , as mentioned to similar questions about previous bills, take your invoice and go talk to the service manager at your dealership, you might be positively surprised at the response. I can’t answer for what your dealership will offer you, but owners are already reporting good news Kind regards Carl
I have an older R1200 GS and the u-joints packed it in around 50,000 kms. At that time the Final Drive and Drive shaft were "Lubed for Life" and required no service at that time. BMW found out quickly that the Final Drives do require fluid changes but my particular model has no fill and drain plugs so you have to tilt down the FD to drain and fill through the ABS sensor hole. A pain but it did allow the opportunity to grease the splines while you had it apart. The drive shaft failed due to lack of lubrication. In BMW's wisdom they staked in the u-joints and has no grease nipples to service. The only solution they had was to purchase a new driveshaft of the same design for big money. I ended up purchasing a serviceable aftermarket shaft at half the cost with grease nipples and changeable u-joints which are cheap to replace if necessary. I have zero issues with the aftermarket shaft to date. The Final Drive "Big end" bearing failed last year at 80,00 kms. I went to the dealer and all they could do for me was sell me a new final drive which would have cost as much as the bike was worth. They do not repair Final Drives only install new units. Thankfully I found a machine shop in Canada that rebuilds BMW Transmissions and Final Drives and was able to rebuild mine for $700 Canadian. I guess my point is there is nothing about a driveshaft system that is maintenance friendly. My new bike has a chain and sprockets now. Just saying!
Hi Marcus, welcome to the channel and thank you for sharing your experience and thoughts, I’m sure many owners appreciate the extra input. So thank you for taking the time to share. 🙋🏻♂️ Kind regards Carl
I have yesterday get a big 40000km service on my 2015 RT. Been asked for lubrication on my driveshaft for another 90 euro. They could not say that it was needed. The discussion leded more to a GS problem as you say.
Hi, it is a K50, congratulations on your new purchase welcome to the GS club 🙋🏻♂️ You will receive a free Driveshaft replacement at 60k km or 36k ish miles. Best wishes Carl
Carl One scenario you didn’t mention. If the driveshaft were to fail at say 40-50k, and the bike was out of warranty, would it be a free replacement or no?
I confirm that information. I just had my 1250 RS serviced and they put separate piece of paper in the service book with service schedule where replacement of drive shaft is listed at 60.000km. Very cool :)
Hi Carl, many thanks for this information . Credit to BMW for this action - though perhaps a clean and grease of the drive shaft should be included in every other regular service
Mmm, good for BMW for recognising the issue. HOWEVER in the general servicing given the issues will BMW be expecting the customer to pick up additional servicing “time” costs? If the answer is yes then they are really not losing anything. Also in effect if the driveshafts aren’t up to it design wise are the ones they are replacing them with any better? Change of design?
Hi Stuart, the new GS gearbox and driveshaft design is different and much improved. As to the costs of this extra inspection and spline re-grease owners have reported it is 90€ to do, so we each have to decide if we want it. But if you read through the comments section below your find one positive from this. One owner reported he agreed to the extra service only to be told his shaft was seized so the dealer then installed a free new drive shaft without ANY costs. Even though his bike had not reached the 60,000 km limit. So for me this is a positive Carl
Hi Eduardo, the R9T is not covered as the load on the rear drive shaft is a lot less and so are the working angles of the shaft. They generally don’t have any problems. Carl 👍
So is it just once a free shaft at 60.000km and every other 60k we get shafted by BMW, or do they own up and continue providing free shafts at higher mileages?
Nice one, thank you bmw. I bought my 2014 gsa private. Partial bmw service history. Only done 9000 miles though. Be a while till i can get mine done. Wicked bike 😊. Keep up the good work👍👍
My 2015 with 14k miles was checked and found to have cracks, in the shaft at last service, so was replaced, so worth asking them if they’ve checked it irrespective of mileage. 👍
Interesting! You pointed out on the R1300GS video the drive shaft is longer and less "kinked" I suspect the weak point is the u/j and is less stressed? I never understood the spline lubrication thing and am unclear whether it's required maintenance on the old and the new? Thanks for the information Carl.
I am amazed that BMW are actually conceding that their shaft design has some flaws. In the late nineties, I bought an R1100RS with panniers and top box second hand from a BMW franchise dealer in Lancashire. Just after, they lost the franchise - a BMW management decision. About a year later, I noticed that the rear subframe (just a single hollow tube supporting the seat and luggage frames) had all but failed. It looked as if someone had hacksawed the tubes on both sides of the frame to within millimetres of complete separation! Had it totally failed while riding with passenger, I shudder to think of the consequences. I then recalled reading about such sub-frame failures in previous BMW club magazines. Approaching BMW about this failure, they refused to accept any liability. The dealer however, despite no longer carrying the BMW franchise, replaced the subframe and bore all the costs! What surprised me most was seeing the replacement subframe. Talk about chalk and cheese! This item was built out of girders!!! There was no comparison and yet BMW refused to acknowledge the weakness in this new subframe design. Note, despite this experience, I still ride BMWs but I am pleased to see that finally they are prepared to concede that their designs are not always perfect.
Thank you for sharing your story and taking the time to leave to leave a comment . Accepting liability will probably never happen for any manufacturer, but it is good to see a major step forward by BMW with respect to the drive shaft. I’m aware a lot of owners have issues with the rear shock on the GS/A so they still have work to do. But overall it’s a great gesture to owners of these five models. Kindest regards Carl
Spoke to my uk dealer today about my shaft and the new information and was told they had not heard about it what so ever lol Great video tho and thanks for your time and effort 😊
Well perhaps they should watch the video too lol. And read the service notifications that bmw sends out to all there dealerships. Have you booked your motorbike in for the replacement shaft now?
Another Informative video thanks - I was wondering why you haven’t commented on the r1300 relay issue. There are thousands affected . It would be useful to understand why such a common component failed - more Importantly how can we rely on the part in the future. Many have commented that it is identical (on visual inspection) to the failed one. There are other comments about problems with oil leaks demon the gearbox etc which worry me less. It would be useful to hear your take on r1300 issues given the naysayers around without jeopardizing your BMW relationship that seems to yield good information like the shaft.
I’m due to have a R1300GS again later in the season for a longer period, so provided I can get real data and facts about the issues from BMW and there response and fix to this issues, I will cover it. There are also some engine issues that have been reported. So I feel it’s important to wait a while until we have actual facts to share. Have a great Sunday Carl
So wait… I have a 2022 GSA… every 60,000 miles I need a new drive shaft? One of the reasons I bought a BMW is because I didn’t want a belt or a chain to deal with but to have to have a major service like a drive shaft replacement is mind blowing!
Hi Alex, I understand your concerns probably shared by many, but at least they have made a positive step forward by offering all of us with models they have listed, with a free replacement at 60k for the life of motorbike at no cost to us. Best wishes Carl
The reason they do this is a legal one. It’s a well documented issue and a safety related one. They made a change to the maintenance schedule AFTER they sold these bikes. Without replacing them free, they’d be saying you had to bring in your bike every 60K and spend $2000 replacing your driveshaft. Some customers may not have bought one of these models if they were told that. (They can’t impose a costly replacement schedule after the fact) Most customers wouldn’t perform that maintenance every 60K if they had to pay out of pocket. This would likely lead to failures including seizing and possible crashes. It’s a known safety related issue, and they’ve done their due diligence. I wouldn’t thank them like they’re doing this out of the goodness of of their heart, but I’m grateful just the same😊
I live in British Columbia and have a '17 GS Rallye 1200... just turned 20K Kms. I recently had the initial recall work performed with the installation of the drain plug in the shaft housing. My dealer told me that while performing this work and the shaft inspection they would grease ONLY the end of the shaft at the rear wheel... and that they would not be actually removing the shaft. While the cost of the recall was covered by BMW I asked if I could pay for the extra work involved in removing the shaft and greasing both ends. The service tech agreed that this would be a good move... and the additional cost was pretty minimal so I went ahead. I'm not complaining 0:02 but it seems that there might be a little inconsistancy as to how different dealers are handling the initial recall.
Hi Alan, yes I agree, it seems each dealership network has a very slightly different approach to processing these jobs. This is one area BMW could improve across its network. Kind regards Carl
Thank you for your excellent video, I have an ex Authority police bike with 38K miles and the first mod has been done, it's a 2016 plate so should qualify, but it seems both my local dealers are reluctant to do this work for whatever reason, one has told me that If I have the work done the cost is down to me, the other says they will get back to me after the Easter break but the response I've got from the dealers so far is disapointing to say the least. Any suggestions greatfully recieved
Hi Greg, you don't mention which country you live in? I have already received a letter directly from bmw advising me of the changes to the service plan and the free driveshaft, thousands of owners have now started receiving their letter of notification. Some dealerships do not seem to be very well informed and don't seem to understand the instructions they have received from bmw. I would suggest contacting your main BMW representative in your country and asking them for help with your dealership, which they will do, as the instructions are global for all motorbikes listed. No exceptions!!! When you contact them quote the notification number I gave you on the screen at the start of the video. Regards Carl
@@justthewayitis I'm in the UK and I called BMW directly, they were brilliant, bike now booked in, but there seems lots of confusion as you suggest. Thanks again
Hi Greg, brilliant news for you, and good response from BMW HQ. Even now as you have found, it’s disappointing that some dealerships have no idea about this even though it was officially announced last year. Many owners are experiencing difficulties at dealerships with a poor uniformed response. I hope BMW makes another internal announcement to their network. Thank you for letting me know your news it will definitely assure other owners to push their local HQ for a better service from there dealers. Kindest regards Carl 👍
Hi Carl, assuming you have had the initial modification i.e fitting of the rubber duck valve & drive shaft test & all was okay but then afterwards develop a fault before the 48k is reached, will BMW fit a new drive shaft? TIA.
Hi G, my understanding is that if you are experiencing a problem, return the bike and BMW will perform another test, if it fails the test you will receive a replacement driveshaft. So my understanding is yes. Carl
Hi, I have a question regarding the "K50" marking you refer to. I just purchased a 2023 R1250GS ( I have not picked up the bike yet, due to the snow and cold weather in Norway.) So my question are simple, how can I find out if I have a "K50" or are all R1250GS from 2013 to 2023 "K50" ? Thanks for a god channel Carl, 😊.
Hi Jørn, yes we both have a K50. This number is normally found on your vehicle registration documents. If you read through the comments below a subscriber has given a link to a website where you can enter your chassis number to check. But you have a K50 🙋🏻♂️ Greeting Carl
Hey Carl, I commented last month on your HEX GS 911 video . I wanted to show my friend but it looks like you’ve taken it down . Am I go crazy or have you removed it.
Hi Peter, I haven’t yet uploaded a video about the GS911 unit so I think you might be thinking of John at Bennett bike social, but the funny thing is I do use one in the workshop and I mention it in the next video which goes up next week, plus I’m going to make a video about some of its features in the summer. Ps your only going slightly crazy 🙋🏻♂️ Best wishes Carl
Im in ireland but my bike was bought as 2 year old from ocean bmw in corwall. Do i have to go to them for this recall and drive shaft ? Or can it be carried out here in ireland ?
Hi Gerald, Your local dealer will be fine. They all offer the same service conditions and will replace your drive shaft if you have more than 37,500 miles . Carl
Great work again! Really looking forward to your long term review. Maybe do a video about the whistling problem of the 1250 GSA that have been build since June 2023?
Hi i have a 2017 BMW R1200 gS LC Exclusive, (20,000 Mile) can I ask if my drive shaft has failed befor the FREE one is replaced will BMW replace this Free of Charge..
Hi that’s a great question but unfortunately the answer may vary depending on your dealership and geographical location. In principle yes but some owners have said they were told No… If you have already paid for a replacement driveshaft there’s a good chance if you talk nicely to your dealership that you may get something back. Carl
Does this have to be part of a service or can I take the bike in just to have this done alone and not have to pay for a service as I service the bike myself?
Well I don't have a full understanding of this problem (possible starter relay) at the moment, also I have seen some online magazines (1000PS) have also had to have a full engine replacement which we also need to wait and see if this is going require a recall, or if its an isolated problem. With any completely new bike some initial problems are going to be experienced, but it is disappointing to see these problems on BMW's most important new motorbike. I cant really comment because no one has the facts on these issues at the moment. BMW are probably working on these issues right now. Carl
WOW. Thanks for the info and good for BMW owning up to the drive shaft issue. Now that BMW have admitted there is a problem have you any information as to what would happen if a drive shaft failed before 60,000km on a bike that was out of warranty? Cheers Mike
Hi Mike, I can’t answer for what BMW will do … but I suggest taking your bill and invoice and go talk to your dealership. Try to speak with the service manager. You may be surprised ! At the response, in a positive way. I have heard good things… Carl
I am in Australia and have a 2023 R1250GS. I have never heard of these "K" designations. My googling to date has only told me about European variants. Apart from calling the dealership (yes, I know, that's the obvious answer) is there another way I can find what variant I have and whether this applies to my bike? It is very new, I only have about 3000kms on the clock.
You have a K50 ( R1250GS ) its normally found listed in your registration documents. So your GS is included in what we talk about in todays video. Don't worry... the model codes can be confusing at first. Carl
You can try running your VIN through a VIN decoder, and you can likely find your model code there. I just bought a 1250GS (haven't actually taken delivery). Running my VIN I got Development code K50 and model code OM03. My 2015 GS Adventure was a K51 OA12.
@@justthewayitis Thanks Carl. I'll have a look there. My bike is of course covered by warranty and I have purchased a service plan as well, so I'm not feeling concerned, rather more interested if my bike is a potential for recall.
I fell foul of the BMW drive shaft issue. I had a 2018 Gs and 3 months out of warranty I found the drive shaft was totally seized to the bevel gear drive. I took it to my local dealer who quoted £2800 to fix! I obviously kicked off and they agreed to ask BMW for a ‘good will’ repair, which they did, but still cost me £300 for the labour, BMW supplied the parts. 6 months later they were doing the rubber bung mod.
I just called BMW Motorrad USA about my 2016 R1200RT. The person answered the phone told me that there is no blanket recall/service bulletin to replace drive shaft for all. Since my motorcycle is registered with BMW Motorrad, they know my VIN number and told me my bike is not affected. I called my local BMW dealer service department a couple of days a go and they told me the same. Am I missing something?
Hi Jay, good evening, it's sad to see some dealerships and internal bmw staff members still do not read the internal notification "SIB", because it's 100% correct. Your RT should in fact be a K52 model which is clearly covered by this Global announcement from BMW. Take the number listed in the video title and listed on the screen during the video and give that number to bmw USA. Call them again, ask to kindly speak to a manager and give him/her that number. If your motorbike is a K52 model you will receive a replacement driveshaft once you pass 60,000 km. Let me know how you get on Carl
Hi Paul, if you watch my R1300GS VS R1250GS video, towards the end i talk about the changes to the driveshaft position and gearbox location. The lower the angle of drive the better, the new GS has a lesser degree of working angle. Carl
Contacted our local BMW dealer and Edmonton and asked about this for my 2018 RT. The service manager said it doesn’t apply to mine. I sent him photos from February 2022 (just after warranty) of the rusted and seized drive shaft on my final drive (I sent it to the previous service manager who did not care nor help). This guy said he will send them off to BMW. Now here in Canada the shaft costs $250. Which I can afford, but that’s not the point. This was a failure from BMW. I spent the day trying to get my shaft off the final drive. I succeeded. I also went to the dealer twice asking them to check it. I was told this is a good for lifetime item. Clearly it’s not. I now keep it lubed with a moly and seal the boot with silicon grease. Have not had an issue since.
Hi, your dealership doesn't sound very good, if you have a 2018 RT then it's a K53 model which is covered under the Global service bulletin I talk about in this video. Several owners from Canada have left comments below confirming their dealers have replaced the shafts for free. Give your dealer the service notification number and ask them to check again, or try a different dealer. You should not need to pay anything Let me know how you get on Carl
Well here is some good news. The new service manager got the response from BMW CANADA. They will replace my shaft at 60000 km (I have 40000km on it now). He said if you don’t want to make the 4 1/2hr trip, you can buy a new one for $257. He would love to send me a free one on BMW’s dime, but BMW wants their own techs to work on it. I get that. Im happy. 60000 is not that far away.
Excellent news, that’s how BMW should respond, thank you for sharing the update 👍 Like you say it’s a fair distance for you to travel, perhaps book the software update for while you are there. Best wishes Carl
Hey Carl, what happened to the poor baby Multistrada ! It is the one started and took your channel to this level, but forgotten 😔 By the way this is one of the best TH-cam channel out there. The way you present, the content, tips, tricks, recommendations all simply superb. I have a suggestion also, as being technician you give true information about some misunderstood topics, like this brakes, exhaust, etc. May be as for other technical parts of motorbike, which are generally not known correctly you can make small series to explain. Just an idea. Thanks a lot for all your hard work...
Hi Savas, thank you for your kind words, the Multistrada is not forgotten 😉 In Fact it’s mentioned in my next video up this week on Friday. I do miss my Muttley 🙋🏻♂️
Hi Ben , 2013/14 is the start point so I think yes, but take a picture of your chassis number and ask your dealership to confirm, if yours is water cooled I think it will be covered. Let me know how you get on. Kind regards Carl
@@justthewayitis But if the driveshaft fails say at 25,000 miles, so you never reach the 37,500 miles for the free replacement, will they still replace it free of charge? Also is the new driveshaft upgraded from the original, or is it the same with the grease and maintenance schedule they should have applied to the original?
@fiveowaf454 If it fails at 25k then the next free one is in ( 25+36k miles) so at 61k miles time and continues for the life of the motorcycle. As to which shaft they fit, you could ask your dealership if it’s the original design. Carl
Hi Carl, once more you are top notch with your clear & valuable info to us GS 1250 owners. My question: why would I spend lots of money to have the splines lubricated if BMW will replace my shaft anyway? I have 11 000 km on the counter only on tarmac. Thanks, Marc, Quebec Canada 🇨🇦😉🏍
See my update - It is worth the 'gamble' of a regrease as in my case I got everything replaced free of charge and if not you have peace of mind that the splines are all ok.
Marc, talk to your dealer. I got a copy of the Service Information Bulletin for North America (it was posted on ADVRider), and my reading is that the 20,000 km checks/regreasing of the splines are covered under warranty. To quote (from page 2 of Bulletin): "The replacement check and regrease of the cardan shaft (driveshaft) is covered by warranty and is offered to all customers that own a K5x motorcycle model year 2023 and older and unlimited miles or general service behavior of the customer."
EXTRA IMPORTANT INFO: In the UK and USA that is 37,500 miles - For the rest of the World that's 60,000 kilometres - for the life of the motorbike. So you will continue to receive a replacement drive shaft at 60K km / 37,500 miles for the life of the motorbike. This is important news.
If you have any concerns about your drive shaft, your local BMW dealership can perform a workshop test using special testing equipment. This test is not automatically performed unless you request it AND have concerns about wear / vibration. Talk to your dealership, they are there to help you.
Also the driveshaft service and re-grease is sometimes offered to customers free of charge but sometimes you have to pay for it. I think !!! it is dependant on the country in which you live and the model of motorbike you own, so again I suggest you talk to your local dealership.
When I have additional "Confirmed / official" news I will add it here and in the video description
Regards Carl
Good stuff Carl, love the channel.
So at every full 60k km for the rest of the bike's life? (I'm close to completing my second 60k, all of that on the new shaft on my 2020 1250gs!)
@PeterBaumgart1a : yes every 60,000 km for the life of the bike 👍
I had mine replaced 6 months ago for free (39k miles).
@commoncents5191 great news , thank you for sharing
Carl
Don’t know that I’ve ever heard of any vehicle manufacturer preemptively addressing such a huge issue. As a new R 1250 GS owner I’m preemptively relieved BMW has straight forwardly set forth a plan of action. Many thanks to this wonderful Chanel for the wealth of information provided.
Thank you Bradley, and I agree BMW have made a smart move...covering ALL 5 models.
A little Staburag's goes a long way.........wonder why this never occurred to the boys and girls in Bavaria?
A little Lubrication goes a long way... smile
@justthewayitis As nice as it is, that BMW are changing shafts for free, I expect there is a very good legal reason behind this change of course. Those shafts are £700-£800 to buy (obviously a lot less for BMW) plus labour charge to change it. With many, many thousands of bikes involved, this must be costing the a huge amount of money. They have obviously done the usual Cost/Benefit calculation and decided this is the cheapest or safest option.
I'm sure there are corporate reasons behind this, but it is good news for many thousands of owners. Carl
All hail Carl for the work he put in. Champion 🙌
but the motivation came from your comment.....Cheers Craig
Woof
Best warranty in business BMW has !!! Mine R1200gs with 130.000km just had driveshaft replaced for free
That's great news Alex 👍
Glad they came good for you Let me down badly !!!!!!!!!!
@@allanhughes7859 Bad dealer or maybe is your approach to them…
Sorry but the dealer has nothing to do with it I went direct to B.M.W. firstly told to get lost by a minor so tried to get to a senior manager who would not talk to me so down a few cogs so dealt with that individual They simply tried to get me to go through so many hoops even I gave up but the complaint was a serious one fuel flow into the control unit could be a fatal issue did they care no they did not so you stick to your Bema and good luck at least I can sleep at night knowing I have said what needed to be said They like most European companies don't give a dam at least the Japs do care !! Rant over !!@@alexstan5358
I recently bought a 2014 r1200rt from an independent dealer. It was in good condition with 44,000 miles on it with part service history. I took it to my local bmw dealer to see if it had any recalls outstanding they said it needed improved circlips on the footrests, and the drive shaft + shaft housing needed inspection. They changed the circlips and fitted the drain valve to the driveshaft housing, + they fitted a new driveshaft. I think that is great service they also gave it a complete health check which it passed with no issues at no cost to me I also got a ride r1300gs a great bike but I don't have that sort of free cash at the moment also lots of coffee and cookies whats not to like.😊
Nice experience you have shared
👍🙋🏻♂️
Have exactly the same year and model. Only 20k miles on mine when I bought from Honda dealer and I got all the above done too. They even cleaned the bike after. I love their waiting room with free hot chocolate and biscuits and a TV. It actually got rid of a problem for a little while, which has now come back again.... at low speed, with the clutch in I rev the engine it feels like it's trying to bite and I get a knocking in the shaft. They told me nothing is wrong but I've never known any other bike do this and I've had over 20.
Good to hear you enjoyed the service quality, but the issue you described doesn’t sound normal, perhaps go to a different dealer and try a different bike and see if it’s the same. That would be my next step.
Carl 🙋🏻♂️
@@justthewayitis Right? Mechanics always fob me off as if I'm imagining a problem, until it gets severe and I say "told you so". I mean it's been doing it for 3 years now and nothing has broken, it's just changed the way I ride. I no longer rev my bike with the clutch in at low speeds.
I have just bought a new bmw1250 gs adventure k51 it’s nice to know when it reaches the mileage it will get replaced . Thank you so much for letting us know. You cannot fault BMW for the after care. At the end of the day you do pay a lot of money for your BMW. Any other bike manufacturer would have done there best to make excuses not to change them 👍👍
Thank you Andrew 🙏
Their K series (4 cylinder) leaves a lot to be desired in recalls in particular Europe,
You need to study the history of BMW Motorcycle mechanical failures. They were notorious for refusing to address known issues, including driveshaft problems, going back to the late 1990s and early 2000s. The customer was completely on their own. The repair cost was often times more than the value of the motorcycle.
Thank you so much for this video notification! My local dealer here in Oregon, US just slid in a new drive shaft on my 2016 RT for no charge at 98,000 miles. Sweet.
Hi Bob, that’s great news and exactly how we all should be treated, thank you for sharing
Kind regards Carl
Interesting. Last year I brought my bike in for service 2022 R 1250 GS 40th Anniversary. About 9,000 miles. They stress tested the driveshaft. Told me it did not meet the standard and they installed a new one at no additional charge. (I dont consider anything free when you look at the original price of the bike. They way mine was built is was $28K so as far as I'm concerned I should have a life time of free parts whenever I need them. LOL that said the bike is PHENOMINAL!!!
They are lovely bikes !!!
Thank you for your complete clarification. I have a 2020 R1250RT purchased new. I had the first three services done by BMW but now the warranty is up, I will be doing it all myself. I had contacted the dealer at the end of last year and they confirmed the replacement shaft FOC at 37000miles, I just assumed I would have to continue having the bike serviced by them so great news from you on that score....imagine getting free chain and sprockets for life!
I had checked my driveshaft last year at around 18000miles given all the scare stories regarding spline rusting etc. Luckily, mine was OK but the shaft did just pull straight off the gearbox end so I removed the shaft from the tunnel to give everything a good inspection. The reason the shaft came off the gearbox end was because there was no circlip on the shaft even though the groove was machined for it. I had a thorough search of all the boots and the tunnel to make sure it hadn't become dislodged but found nothing. Reading on the net suggested others had this same issue suggesting BMW had decided the clip wasn't needed. I reassembled everything and have subsequently reached over 20000miles without issue. Do you know if the circlip should be fitted or not? Thanks again for your excellent video's. Cheers Dave
Hi Dave, it’s called a snap clip and I think the part number is
33 73 8 556 245 but best you check that with your dealership.
The snap clip is used on the gearbox end to help maintain the shaft in position. The shaft movement (lateral movement) takes place at the drive hub. This is the area that needs to be really clean, free of rust and well greased.
You could clarify with your local dealer, speak to one of the technicians if you can, they are normally very friendly.
Carl
I wish it were that easy. I have a 2014 BMW RT with 120,000 miles and just got a free I-Level upgrade in the US. My local BMW dealer told me that I didn't qualify for this service bulletin. 😥
Update: After calling BMW North America and returning to my local dealership, I finally got the approval to get a replacement final drive. Thanks for the tip. 😁
Hello Tobias, sorry to hear that I presume your bike is not a K52 model but the previous generation ?
Carl
@@justthewayitis The 2014 RT is a K52 model.
@@justthewayitis The 2014 RT is a K52 model. My local BMW dealer made me aware of a new I-Level upgrade K001-23-11-510 that they installed for free. I almost suspect that BMW might want to fix this issue this way in the US.
The K52 will receive a replacement drive shaft after 60,000 km if your dealership is telling you it doesn’t apply to your bike, contact BMW NA and complain . This is a global service notification and your motorbike is covered 👍
Great video! I tend to buy older BMW motorcycles after others have absorbed the depreciation and added thousands in farkles. If I end up buying one of these models I now know to check with my local dealer to make sure the driveshaft is tip top.
BMW stands behind their products. I had the failed fuel strip replaced under warranty on my 2013 1200R in 2023....ten years after the bike was made.
Hi Chad, thank you 🙏 for your feedback much appreciated. Yes buying used can save £$€, and can make ownership a more enjoyable experience. The dealership are very good and support is generally excellent. Thank you for sharing.
Best wishes Carl
Thank you for making this video and thank you to BMW for proactively identifying and addressing the issue. Great to be part of this Motorad community.
Hi Wilder, good morning, thank you 🙏 and yes it’s great to see BMW doing this.
Regards Carl
Proactive? 😂. They are reactive-but proactive avoiding class action lawsuits.
Are you for real its simple.Sub standard quality at stupid prices they are just watching their backs trust me I have been kicked into touch by these cowboys/women Never ever again will I buy into this so so over rated brand only an opinion but concluded by poor service from this over rated company !!!!!!!!!!!!
Can confirm as well. Recently purchased a used ex Police RT-P. Needed a new clutch as it was starting to slip under load up hill. Took the bike to Brown Motor Works in Pomona, California. Dealer advised me the bike was due for a driveshaft replacement, and it would be covered by BMW. Many thanks for the information.
Hi Daniel, thank you for sharing your story, many video viewers seem to think it’s not true… which is shame, as this is important news for us all.
Greatly appreciate 👍
Kindest regards Carl
Yes but how much did the clutch replacement cost ??????mine was just short of 1K !!!!!!
This is great info. I bought a 2023 R1250RS last June and just love it. I just stumbled on this video and am glad I did.
Hello Tod, and welcome to the channel, one of my riding buddies has the RS and he loves his too. Beautiful bike.
Thank you for leaving a comment 👍
Carl
I was involved with BMW for over 20 years and they have always had issues with driveshafts/bearings. A driveshaft is NOT a service item, and you would think that making bikes with driveshafts for over 100 years they would have got it right by now. I don’t recall any other brand having issues like this. Honda Pan European, many Moto Guzzis, Yamaha Super Tenere or Triumph 1200 models don’t seem to to have any issues.
Hi Timothy, welcome to the channel and thank you for sharing your thoughts and insights. Much appreciated
Cart
Maybe they had issues, but they don’t have the integrity 😊
My kawasaki has over 120k miles and never had an issue
@@buyaqubFJRs are not known for having shaft failures even on very high mileage bikes.
Just stumbled across this post....thank you so much for taking the time and effort to post this your a proper gent and im sure the bmw community thanks you ( 1200rt owner)
Hi Kevin, thank you for your message, much appreciated.
Kind regards Carl
Always been impressed with BMW warranty service. In 2005 i bought a new k1200s and rode it till 2012. In 5th year of ownership the entire clutch assy failed. BMW provided a new assy with the deal i pay for installation. This is in Canada. Currently ride an indian challenger. Same excellent warranty support. I'd buy another BMW in a heartbeat
Hi Dave, thank you for sharing your experience, much appreciated
Best wishes Carl 👍
Thank you very much for the heads up Carl. I had serviced my driveshaft the other year when I stumbled on a bunch of videos of rusty splines. Mine were perfect but I redid everything. I got the notification from BMW about condensation and was going to have that done in the coming months. I’m not quite at 36,000 miles yet but hoping the dealership will do both at the same time. It’s a 2 hour trip for me (1 way). Again, thanks so much for posting.
Hi Dana, that sounds like a great plan, one trip and everything Is taken care of. You could call the dealership and ask if it’s possible to do both now, most dealership are very friendly and they will be well aware of the driveshaft replacement program.
Carl
Thanks for the update but let me enquire...Should the driveshaft fail before the 60k km ie the original or replacement driveshaft will BMW replace and repair any other damage caused by
the failure for free?
BMW will review each case individually. So my advice is to take any invoice and bills with you and go talk to your local BMW Service Manager
Carl
Thank you for providing the details of BMW's campaign to replace the cardan shafts. I'm the second owner of a 2017.5 R1200GS and this is great news.
You’re welcome Jon 🙋🏻♂️
I'm still a fan. My dealership in British Columbia, Canada, will be replacing my cardan shaft on March 1. As you said, Carl, no charge to me. I have 128,000 km on my owned since new 2018 RT. I have regularly lubed the splines and inspected the u-joints. No issues on my bike. Cheers!
Are you in Vancouver, BC ? @gordonhenderson1708
Hi Gordon, great news and thank you for sharing.
Kind regards Carl 👍
@@jnbharwadGreetings. I'm in Kelowna. Honda Powersports BMW is the dealership here.
Great video Carl. Thanks for the information. Credit to BMW. My current K50 GS is my 5th GS that I've owned. Well over 300,000km (combined) covered by those bikes. Happy to say, no final drive issues at all. However, a free replacement shaft at 60,000km will be welcome. Cheers from 🇦🇺
Now that is a lot of miles, well done you !!! Carl
Had mine done on my 1250RT at 86000km in Austria, checked the old one and it was still in very good condition.
The RT is a lovely bike 👍
Thanks so much for this info. I am here in Australia and own a 2014 BMW R1200RT which I purchased from new. The bike so far has done less then 10.000km. Yes I know...pathetic, but Life/Work/Injury(s) had a fair bit to do with it. Mine also had the original recall within just a few months of ownership performed, regarding the suspension issue. I was actually going to do the original driveshaft inspection and I have the tools and equipment to do so. I might still just do the visual with an inspection camera and see what the condition is. I have got the special (very expensive grease) to lubricate the splines, but also the grease to lubricate/seal the rubber boots. I wait for 6 months and see if I get any notifications from BMW. My bike is and always has been garaged and it has seen maybe 3~4 trips that encountered rain, nor do I use a pressure washer when cleaning it. So it will be interesting to see the condition of the splines and shaft.
Hi Alf, you might in light of what I have shared, like to think about taking your RT in for this inspection and grease up, if there is a worn shaft in your bike you would receive a new one.
Carl
Thanks to your TH-cam channel I learned about BMW's campaign to replace the cardan shaft. I saw it on Thursday, I called BMW on Friday and today I have installed my new cardan shaft and the drainage system with its rubber plug. My GS ADV LC from 2015 has 99860km. They also informed me that at 120,000km and 180,000km they will change my cardam again, completely free of charge. It was all very easy and thanks to you and your excellent work today I have a smile from ear to ear! Thank you so much mate✌️ sending big hugs from Altafulla Spain
Hi Walter, I’m really delighted that your 2015 GS has received a new driveshaft, without cost, and they have treated you well, and have also done the recall modification. I would like to share that hearing stories like yours is the reason why I make videos for TH-cam, I feel that if a video helps just 10 people my goal is achieved. I know my channel will never be a huge success, but I’m completely fine knowing this.
Thank you for taking the time to share, and to hear your smiling from ear to ear is perfect.
Wishing you many happy km ahead this summer.
Sincerely Carl
I have been following your TH-cam channel for a long time because I like how you address topics related to the world of motorcycles. Your contribution is really professional, direct and elegant! Thank you very much for everything you do ✌️
You’re very welcome 🙏🙋🏻♂️
This is all fantastic - I would note that my drive shaft on my R1200RS failed at 70,000K's - made a claim on BMW but they wouldn't come to the party, in fact they were quite brusque in their comments in this respect and still after a fair bit of correspondence they continued to hold their ground in their refusal re compensation. Now go some 12 months down the track and I found a friend had his driveshaft replaced at 90,000K's under warranty. I again approached BMW and after a fair bit of to and froing they agreed to meet the replacement cost, not including any labour costs involved. To say I was unhappy about their treatment of my situation in this regard would be a great understatement, particularly now as they try to grandstand with their current stance.
Hi Jerry, I’ve heard lots of similar stories, very disappointing. Thank you for sharing your experience.
I understand that some owners are unhappy about earlier events… we can’t change that. But moving forward it is good to see a change and a decision to cover all 5 models.
Kind regards Carl
Awesome, just had a new shaft fitted (25k). Gives me even more confidence to keep my 1200GS long term.
Great news Jason 👍🙋🏻♂️
Much obliged Carl. I have looked at many of your videos and have learnt so much. Thank you.
Thank you 🙏
Hi Carl, I agree this is welcome news and gives you peace of mind about the drive shaft
Yes and especially as moving forward it’s every 60K km regardless of service history
🙋🏻♂️👍
Nice. My 2012 GSA has 180000kms with trouble free drive shaft.
And that’s exactly how it should be 🙋🏻♂️
Very good news. I was originally told by a Canadian service tech here in BC Canada that my 2021 K52 RT (22000kms) did not meet the criteria for even the inspection or the drain hole. I will be doing a revisit soon to the service dept. It will be interesting to hear, officially, what they recommend now. Thank you for the information.
Hi Jimmy, thank you 🙏, and your K52 is included in the free driveshaft replacement program once you reach 60k, hopefully they will agree to do the inspection and test.
Best wishes Carl
Thanks for bringing us these notifications and explaining them so well. What is still somewhat confusing is that BMW are now admitting the splines need to be lubed to a schedule - which they didn't used to, now say you SHOULD have it done, and at your own expense, but that they will in any case give you a free replacement shaft drive even if you don't lube, whenever it fails or at 48K miles. Some people say you should do the splines as soon as you buy a new bike because they come out of the factory insufficiently lubed. It seems to me they should be offering a free spline lube in the first instance. Owners only benefit from this plan if they happen to own a bike passing the 48K mile mark. If you are travelling the world even on a newish bike you'd be well advised to get the splines lubed - at your own expense, it seems. I agree they are 'doing the right thing' here, admitting to a weakness in the bike and addressing it, but not, in my view, in an entirely logical way.
Hi Dave, yes they could do more, but what they have done retrospectively on this occasion is actually very good. Especially when you take into account its ALL the road series as well ( R, RT and RS ) Carl
Thanks! So is there something defective with our current drive shaft? I have a RS 1250 2023, so I wonder if this bike has the updated one. Thanks
Hi P-Dub, your welcome 🙏
Thanks for keeping us informed, Carl! 🙏💙
Your very welcome Jessica 🙏
Thank you for telling me this, I’ll be sure to mention it as service time.
Hi James, thank you 🙏
My 2014 90k km GSA just came out of a stator replacement service with a new driveshaft a week ago. It was nice to see since they were repeatedly short on parts from Germany to Canada to carry out the previous service action.
Great news , thank you for sharing 👍
Many thanks for the heads up. Having just taken possession of a low-mileage 21 plate GS, this is good to know. Also looking forward to your Weiser Technik update video... 👍
Thank you, and yes a Weiser-Technik video is due soon, Carl
Thank you so much for this much welcome update. I have the 2023 R1250GS TE, Not sure if K50 or not. My main gripe is The Gold Spoked Wheels. I should have stuck with the original Cast Wheels. I don't venture off road and find these a real pain to keep clean. Thanks again
lol… I experience the same feeling when I clean mine 👍.
I use a toilet brush to speed the process up, works great
Carl
I've got gold spoke wheels, I see a lot of people moaning about cleaning them. Like Carl says, small brush good cleaner and patience. I find it therapeutic 😅
@@koop5365 Mine is 2023 GSA in almost 4K miles 7 months old had bath yesterday. I mostly wipe the bugs from the front end. But I do detail my Harley often.
I have the same bike and gold wheels, I don’t find it an issue at all keeping them clean? I also have a second GS with black rims and stainless spokes, and that’s the same. No issue. Maybe get a cleaning system that makes it easier?
Hey Carl! As always, very clear and informative videos. Congrats! Just one clarification,pls. Where can I get official info online about this shaft drive replacement, just in case my service shop is "uninformed"?
Hi Duarte, they will already be fully aware and up to speed.
The systems the dealerships use are linked to BMW so it’s not possible for them not to know.
The announcement came out in October 2023.
The number I have on the screen is the official information bulletin that all dealers will already have.
Dealerships around the world are already replacing drive shafts.
Kind regards Carl
The water in the swinging arm wasn’t condensation, it was caused by people pressure washing their bikes and blasting water past the gaiters. Hence the fitting of a drain plug so the water could get out. I grease the splines annually and haven’t had any problems but it’s nice to know I’ll be getting a new shaft anyway.
Yes, I’m sure there are other reasons but it is good news 🙏🙋🏻♂️
I had my 2020 GSA in for service/inspection last summer for the shaft recall. It failed the instrumentation test at 17K miles on the odometer and the shaft was replaced. At the time my dealer experienced newer model bikes failing at 4K miles and older bikes passing at 40K miles, although bikes that exceeded 37K miles had their shafts automatically replaced. Go figure. I’m just glad BMW finally acknowledged a replacement interval.
Yes its nice to see BMW have finally addressed this issue.
BMW have been very good with all the different recalls across the models, keep it up
Thank you Robin, yes they have been good, not perfect but very good.
Carl
You hit the nail on the head "ALL THE RE CALLS " Shame that they did not see me right with the on going fuel pump issues CHEAP PLASTIC THAT LEAKS FUEL INTO THE CONTROOL UNIT Bloody death trap !!!
I'm still waiting on the dealer for the drain plug recall, I'll ask about a new driveshaft as part of that. Thanks for the informative video.
Your welcome
Hi I have a GS 1200 k51. I've had the hole drilled by BMW. But I was wondering what you still be entitled to the free drive shaft if it breaks down before the 60k. ?
Love your channel ❤
Yes of course 🙋🏻♂️
Serviced my R1200GS in Poland about 2 years ago. It was still well below 60000 km but the workshop tested my driveshaft and decided it needs to be replaced. It was done free og charge.
That’s great news 👍
The shaft will be replaced for free for first 60 thousands kilometer or every 60 thousands km?
Or for the next 60k kms I need to pay after the first replacement?
Hi, no it’s every 60,000 km which is great 👍
My 1200rs just got it's driveshaft replaced at 60k Km by the dealer. The mechanic found nothing wrong with the old driveshaft. I still appreciate it ofc 😂
Hi Georg, that’s great news, thank you for sharing 👍
Have a good evening
Carl
Good information Carl thank you so much for creating the very detailed as always content. Looking forward to your long term review of the GS 1250.
Thank you 🙏
Respect BMW…..customer satisfaction 100%. At least they deal with their problems.
👍
Except those who already paid $1300 for a replacement driveshaft.
😂😢😮
@ckkrons2338 : Hi , as mentioned to similar questions about previous bills, take your invoice and go talk to the service manager at your dealership, you might be positively surprised at the response.
I can’t answer for what your dealership will offer you, but owners are already reporting good news
Kind regards Carl
@@justthewayitis reimbursement would be the right thing to do.
Hello, very instructive ! Does it mean that the driveshaft is now to be replaced every 60.000 km ?
Yes, every 60,000 km by BMW without cost to you
Carl
I have an older R1200 GS and the u-joints packed it in around 50,000 kms. At that time the Final Drive and Drive shaft were "Lubed for Life" and required no service at that time. BMW found out quickly that the Final Drives do require fluid changes but my particular model has no fill and drain plugs so you have to tilt down the FD to drain and fill through the ABS sensor hole. A pain but it did allow the opportunity to grease the splines while you had it apart. The drive shaft failed due to lack of lubrication. In BMW's wisdom they staked in the u-joints and has no grease nipples to service. The only solution they had was to purchase a new driveshaft of the same design for big money. I ended up purchasing a serviceable aftermarket shaft at half the cost with grease nipples and changeable u-joints which are cheap to replace if necessary. I have zero issues with the aftermarket shaft to date. The Final Drive "Big end" bearing failed last year at 80,00 kms. I went to the dealer and all they could do for me was sell me a new final drive which would have cost as much as the bike was worth. They do not repair Final Drives only install new units. Thankfully I found a machine shop in Canada that rebuilds BMW Transmissions and Final Drives and was able to rebuild mine for $700 Canadian. I guess my point is there is nothing about a driveshaft system that is maintenance friendly. My new bike has a chain and sprockets now. Just saying!
Hi Marcus, welcome to the channel and thank you for sharing your experience and thoughts, I’m sure many owners appreciate the extra input.
So thank you for taking the time to share. 🙋🏻♂️
Kind regards Carl
Thanks Carl, BTW I still have the GS, Can't really part with it yet. LOL@@justthewayitis
👍🙋🏻♂️
I have yesterday get a big 40000km service on my 2015 RT. Been asked for lubrication on my driveshaft for another 90 euro. They could not say that it was needed. The discussion leded more to a GS problem as you say.
Thank you for sharing your experience 👍
Hi, good info. Thanks. Question:Where did you buy the stickers for your r 1250 gs?
ResinBike !!! That’s the brand
They are great quality
Carl 👍
Thank you for this detailed informations. I think it is a really good decision from BMW for us. I was afraid that they forgot us non GS drivers.
Yes, the inclusion of ALL R RT and RS bikes as listed is great news.
Thank you. Very informative 😊 Best wishes from the RS owner
Your very welcome 🙏
I am new to the GS 1250 family. I have just bought a 2022 bike. A silly question, how can I find out whether mine is a K50?
Hi, it is a K50, congratulations on your new purchase welcome to the GS club 🙋🏻♂️
You will receive a free Driveshaft replacement at 60k km or 36k ish miles.
Best wishes Carl
Carl
One scenario you didn’t mention.
If the driveshaft were to fail at say 40-50k, and the bike was out of warranty, would it be a free replacement or no?
Yes I believe so
I confirm that information. I just had my 1250 RS serviced and they put separate piece of paper in the service book with service schedule where replacement of drive shaft is listed at 60.000km. Very cool :)
Perfect 👌
Hi Carl, many thanks for this information . Credit to BMW for this action - though perhaps a clean and grease of the drive shaft should be included in every other regular service
Hi Alan, yes, well done BMW
Mmm, good for BMW for recognising the issue. HOWEVER in the general servicing given the issues will BMW be expecting the customer to pick up additional servicing “time” costs? If the answer is yes then they are really not losing anything. Also in effect if the driveshafts aren’t up to it design wise are the ones they are replacing them with any better? Change of design?
Hi Stuart, the new GS gearbox and driveshaft design is different and much improved. As to the costs of this extra inspection and spline re-grease owners have reported it is 90€ to do, so we each have to decide if we want it. But if you read through the comments section below your find one positive from this. One owner reported he agreed to the extra service only to be told his shaft was seized so the dealer then installed a free new drive shaft without ANY costs. Even though his bike had not reached the 60,000 km limit.
So for me this is a positive
Carl
Wow, I had no idea about this replacement driveshaft thing. I’m at 3,000 km so it will be a while but that’s fascinating.
Yes it’s great news 👍
I have a 2023 rninet scrambler is that model is covered too?
Hi Eduardo, the R9T is not covered as the load on the rear drive shaft is a lot less and so are the working angles of the shaft. They generally don’t have any problems.
Carl 👍
I have a 2015 k51. My drive shaft self destructed at 36,000 miles. I paid for repairs. Do I have any recourse for reimbursement?
Hi Tom, send me an email please so I can reply to you.
Contactcarltoday@gmail.com
As a GSA 1250 owner,Thakns for the info. Just Subbed.
Hi Stone Cold, thank you 🙏
So is it just once a free shaft at 60.000km and every other 60k we get shafted by BMW, or do they own up and continue providing free shafts at higher mileages?
Every 60,000 km you will receive a free Driveshaft.
That is a huge commitment to customers of these models. @@justthewayitis
Nice one, thank you bmw. I bought my 2014 gsa private. Partial bmw service history. Only done 9000 miles though. Be a while till i can get mine done. Wicked bike 😊. Keep up the good work👍👍
Hi Mike, thank you 🙏
My 2015 with 14k miles was checked and found to have cracks, in the shaft at last service, so was replaced, so worth asking them if they’ve checked it irrespective of mileage. 👍
Thank you for sharing 👍
Interesting! You pointed out on the R1300GS video the drive shaft is longer and less "kinked" I suspect the weak point is the u/j and is less stressed? I never understood the spline lubrication thing and am unclear whether it's required maintenance on the old and the new?
Thanks for the information Carl.
My understanding is its needed on both versions to ensure a problem free service time, up until the replacement mileage. Carl
Brilliant explanation Carl 👍
Thank you Mark 🙋🏻♂️
I am amazed that BMW are actually conceding that their shaft design has some flaws. In the late nineties, I bought an R1100RS with panniers and top box second hand from a BMW franchise dealer in Lancashire. Just after, they lost the franchise - a BMW management decision. About a year later, I noticed that the rear subframe (just a single hollow tube supporting the seat and luggage frames) had all but failed. It looked as if someone had hacksawed the tubes on both sides of the frame to within millimetres of complete separation! Had it totally failed while riding with passenger, I shudder to think of the consequences. I then recalled reading about such sub-frame failures in previous BMW club magazines. Approaching BMW about this failure, they refused to accept any liability. The dealer however, despite no longer carrying the BMW franchise, replaced the subframe and bore all the costs! What surprised me most was seeing the replacement subframe. Talk about chalk and cheese! This item was built out of girders!!! There was no comparison and yet BMW refused to acknowledge the weakness in this new subframe design. Note, despite this experience, I still ride BMWs but I am pleased to see that finally they are prepared to concede that their designs are not always perfect.
Thank you for sharing your story and taking the time to leave to leave a comment . Accepting liability will probably never happen for any manufacturer, but it is good to see a major step forward by BMW with respect to the drive shaft. I’m aware a lot of owners have issues with the rear shock on the GS/A so they still have work to do. But overall it’s a great gesture to owners of these five models.
Kindest regards Carl
Spoke to my uk dealer today about my shaft and the new information and was told they had not heard about it what so ever lol
Great video tho and thanks for your time and effort 😊
Well perhaps they should watch the video too lol. And read the service notifications that bmw sends out to all there dealerships.
Have you booked your motorbike in for the replacement shaft now?
Another Informative video thanks - I was wondering why you haven’t commented on the r1300 relay issue. There are thousands affected . It would be useful to understand why such a common component failed - more Importantly how can we rely on the part in the future. Many have commented that it is identical (on visual inspection) to the failed one. There are other comments about problems with oil leaks demon the gearbox etc which worry me less. It would be useful to hear your take on r1300 issues given the naysayers around without jeopardizing your BMW relationship that seems to yield good information like the shaft.
I’m due to have a R1300GS again later in the season for a longer period, so provided I can get real data and facts about the issues from BMW and there response and fix to this issues, I will cover it.
There are also some engine issues that have been reported. So I feel it’s important to wait a while until we have actual facts to share.
Have a great Sunday
Carl
Great info mate!!! What sticker is on your driveshaft?
If you go watch the two episodes about accessories I’ve put a link in the video description 👍
So wait… I have a 2022 GSA… every 60,000 miles I need a new drive shaft? One of the reasons I bought a BMW is because I didn’t want a belt or a chain to deal with but to have to have a major service like a drive shaft replacement is mind blowing!
Hi Alex, I understand your concerns probably shared by many, but at least they have made a positive step forward by offering all of us with models they have listed, with a free replacement at 60k for the life of motorbike at no cost to us.
Best wishes Carl
The reason they do this is a legal one.
It’s a well documented issue and a safety related one.
They made a change to the maintenance schedule AFTER they sold these bikes.
Without replacing them free, they’d be saying you had to bring in your bike every 60K and spend $2000 replacing your driveshaft. Some customers may not have bought one of these models if they were told that.
(They can’t impose a costly replacement schedule after the fact)
Most customers wouldn’t perform that maintenance every 60K if they had to pay out of pocket.
This would likely lead to failures including seizing and possible crashes.
It’s a known safety related issue, and they’ve done their due diligence.
I wouldn’t thank them like they’re doing this out of the goodness of of their heart, but I’m grateful just the same😊
I think your possibly right
I live in British Columbia and have a '17 GS Rallye 1200... just turned 20K Kms.
I recently had the initial recall work performed with the installation of the drain plug in the shaft housing.
My dealer told me that while performing this work and the shaft inspection they would grease ONLY the end of the shaft at the rear wheel... and that they would not be actually removing the shaft.
While the cost of the recall was covered by BMW I asked if I could pay for the extra work involved in removing the shaft and greasing both ends.
The service tech agreed that this would be a good move... and the additional cost was pretty minimal so I went ahead.
I'm not complaining 0:02 but it seems that there might be a little inconsistancy as to how different dealers are handling the initial recall.
Hi Alan, yes I agree, it seems each dealership network has a very slightly different approach to processing these jobs. This is one area BMW could improve across its network.
Kind regards Carl
Thank you for your excellent video, I have an ex Authority police bike with 38K miles and the first mod has been done, it's a 2016 plate so should qualify, but it seems both my local dealers are reluctant to do this work for whatever reason, one has told me that If I have the work done the cost is down to me, the other says they will get back to me after the Easter break but the response I've got from the dealers so far is disapointing to say the least. Any suggestions greatfully recieved
Hi Greg, you don't mention which country you live in?
I have already received a letter directly from bmw advising me of the changes to the service plan and the free driveshaft, thousands of owners have now started receiving their letter of notification.
Some dealerships do not seem to be very well informed and don't seem to understand the instructions they have received from bmw.
I would suggest contacting your main BMW representative in your country and asking them for help with your dealership, which they will do, as the instructions are global for all motorbikes listed. No exceptions!!!
When you contact them quote the notification number I gave you on the screen at the start of the video.
Regards Carl
@@justthewayitis I'm in the UK and I called BMW directly, they were brilliant, bike now booked in, but there seems lots of confusion as you suggest. Thanks again
Hi Greg, brilliant news for you, and good response from BMW HQ. Even now as you have found, it’s disappointing that some dealerships have no idea about this even though it was officially announced last year. Many owners are experiencing difficulties at dealerships with a poor uniformed response.
I hope BMW makes another internal announcement to their network.
Thank you for letting me know your news it will definitely assure other owners to push their local HQ for a better service from there dealers.
Kindest regards Carl 👍
Hi Carl, assuming you have had the initial modification i.e fitting of the rubber duck valve & drive shaft test & all was okay but then afterwards develop a fault before the 48k is reached, will BMW fit a new drive shaft? TIA.
Hi G, my understanding is that if you are experiencing a problem, return the bike and BMW will perform another test, if it fails the test you will receive a replacement driveshaft.
So my understanding is yes.
Carl
@@justthewayitisHi, many thanks for your prompt reply, very much appreciated. Great videos, keep up the excellent work.
Thank you 🙏
Hi, I have a question regarding the "K50" marking you refer to. I just purchased a 2023 R1250GS ( I have not picked up the bike yet, due to the snow and cold weather in Norway.) So my question are simple, how can I find out if I have a "K50" or are all R1250GS from 2013 to 2023 "K50" ? Thanks for a god channel Carl, 😊.
Hi Jørn, yes we both have a K50. This number is normally found on your vehicle registration documents.
If you read through the comments below a subscriber has given a link to a website where you can enter your chassis number to check.
But you have a K50 🙋🏻♂️
Greeting Carl
Hey Carl, I commented last month on your HEX GS 911 video . I wanted to show my friend but it looks like you’ve taken it down . Am I go crazy or have you removed it.
Hi Peter, I haven’t yet uploaded a video about the GS911 unit so I think you might be thinking of John at Bennett bike social, but the funny thing is I do use one in the workshop and I mention it in the next video which goes up next week, plus I’m going to make a video about some of its features in the summer.
Ps your only going slightly crazy 🙋🏻♂️
Best wishes Carl
Im in ireland but my bike was bought as 2 year old from ocean bmw in corwall. Do i have to go to them for this recall and drive shaft ?
Or can it be carried out here in ireland ?
Hi Gerald, Your local dealer will be fine. They all offer the same service conditions and will replace your drive shaft if you have more than 37,500 miles . Carl
Very useful video and always informative. Much appreciated
Thank you 👍
Great work again! Really looking forward to your long term review.
Maybe do a video about the whistling problem of the 1250 GSA that have been build since June 2023?
Hi Michiel , Whistling problems?
Can you tell me more, I’ve not heard of this
Carl
And for the owners of older 1200 GS?
Hi Jean, currently no news from BMW
Hi i have a 2017 BMW R1200 gS LC Exclusive, (20,000 Mile) can I ask if my drive shaft has failed befor the FREE one is replaced will BMW replace this Free of Charge..
Hi that’s a great question but unfortunately the answer may vary depending on your dealership and geographical location. In principle yes but some owners have said they were told No…
If you have already paid for a replacement driveshaft there’s a good chance if you talk nicely to your dealership that you may get something back.
Carl
Brilliant news, thanks for sharing such important info. Had not heard of this at all in Aust, but will ask.
Your welcome 🙏
Does this have to be part of a service or can I take the bike in just to have this done alone and not have to pay for a service as I service the bike myself?
Yes, you can have just the replacement drive shaft done by itself . It’s no problem just to have that done.
Carl
Really enjoy your videos, plan to talk about the 1300 stop sale in a near future?
Well I don't have a full understanding of this problem (possible starter relay) at the moment, also I have seen some online magazines (1000PS) have also had to have a full engine replacement which we also need to wait and see if this is going require a recall, or if its an isolated problem.
With any completely new bike some initial problems are going to be experienced, but it is disappointing to see these problems on BMW's most important new motorbike.
I cant really comment because no one has the facts on these issues at the moment. BMW are probably working on these issues right now.
Carl
WOW. Thanks for the info and good for BMW owning up to the drive shaft issue. Now that BMW have admitted there is a problem have you any information as to what would happen if a drive shaft failed before 60,000km on a bike that was out of warranty?
Cheers
Mike
Hi Mike, I can’t answer for what BMW will do … but I suggest taking your bill and invoice and go talk to your dealership. Try to speak with the service manager.
You may be surprised ! At the response, in a positive way.
I have heard good things…
Carl
I am in Australia and have a 2023 R1250GS. I have never heard of these "K" designations. My googling to date has only told me about European variants.
Apart from calling the dealership (yes, I know, that's the obvious answer) is there another way I can find what variant I have and whether this applies to my bike? It is very new, I only have about 3000kms on the clock.
You have a K50 ( R1250GS ) its normally found listed in your registration documents. So your GS is included in what we talk about in todays video. Don't worry... the model codes can be confusing at first.
Carl
You can try running your VIN through a VIN decoder, and you can likely find your model code there. I just bought a 1250GS (haven't actually taken delivery). Running my VIN I got Development code K50 and model code OM03. My 2015 GS Adventure was a K51 OA12.
@@justthewayitis Thanks Carl. I'll have a look there.
My bike is of course covered by warranty and I have purchased a service plan as well, so I'm not feeling concerned, rather more interested if my bike is a potential for recall.
@@markmayhew5487 More good info - thanks Mark
Thank you Mark 👍
I fell foul of the BMW drive shaft issue. I had a 2018 Gs and 3 months out of warranty I found the drive shaft was totally seized to the bevel gear drive. I took it to my local dealer who quoted £2800 to fix! I obviously kicked off and they agreed to ask BMW for a ‘good will’ repair, which they did, but still cost me £300 for the labour, BMW supplied the parts. 6 months later they were doing the rubber bung mod.
Glad to hear they looked after you Slip. 🙋🏻♂️
I replaced and paid for mine two years ago. I wonder if they will reimburse me?
Hi Len, take your bills and invoice and go and chat to the dealership, you might be lucky or maybe a gesture of good will might come your way.
makes you confident about buying a bmw good customer service
Hi Richard, not everyone will agree with that, but yes I do and it’s a big step forward .☝️
I just called BMW Motorrad USA about my 2016 R1200RT. The person answered the phone told me that there is no blanket recall/service bulletin to replace drive shaft for all. Since my motorcycle is registered with BMW Motorrad, they know my VIN number and told me my bike is not affected. I called my local BMW dealer service department a couple of days a go and they told me the same. Am I missing something?
Hi Jay, good evening, it's sad to see some dealerships and internal bmw staff members still do not read the internal notification "SIB", because it's 100% correct. Your RT should in fact be a K52 model which is clearly covered by this Global announcement from BMW. Take the number listed in the video title and listed on the screen during the video and give that number to bmw USA. Call them again, ask to kindly speak to a manager and give him/her that number.
If your motorbike is a K52 model you will receive a replacement driveshaft once you pass 60,000 km.
Let me know how you get on
Carl
Great video as usual.. 😊
Thank you Melvin 🙏
Great info. Thanks. I wonder what they did different with the 1300's design.
Hi Paul, if you watch my R1300GS VS R1250GS video, towards the end i talk about the changes to the driveshaft position and gearbox location. The lower the angle of drive the better, the new GS has a lesser degree of working angle. Carl
Contacted our local BMW dealer and Edmonton and asked about this for my 2018 RT. The service manager said it doesn’t apply to mine. I sent him photos from February 2022 (just after warranty) of the rusted and seized drive shaft on my final drive (I sent it to the previous service manager who did not care nor help). This guy said he will send them off to BMW. Now here in Canada the shaft costs $250. Which I can afford, but that’s not the point. This was a failure from BMW. I spent the day trying to get my shaft off the final drive. I succeeded. I also went to the dealer twice asking them to check it. I was told this is a good for lifetime item. Clearly it’s not. I now keep it lubed with a moly and seal the boot with silicon grease. Have not had an issue since.
Hi, your dealership doesn't sound very good, if you have a 2018 RT then it's a K53 model which is covered under the Global service bulletin I talk about in this video.
Several owners from Canada have left comments below confirming their dealers have replaced the shafts for free. Give your dealer the service notification number and ask them to check again, or try a different dealer.
You should not need to pay anything
Let me know how you get on
Carl
Well here is some good news. The new service manager got the response from BMW CANADA. They will replace my shaft at 60000 km (I have 40000km on it now). He said if you don’t want to make the 4 1/2hr trip, you can buy a new one for $257. He would love to send me a free one on BMW’s dime, but BMW wants their own techs to work on it. I get that. Im happy. 60000 is not that far away.
Excellent news, that’s how BMW should respond, thank you for sharing the update 👍
Like you say it’s a fair distance for you to travel, perhaps book the software update for while you are there.
Best wishes Carl
Hey Carl, what happened to the poor baby Multistrada ! It is the one started and took
your channel to this level, but forgotten 😔
By the way this is one of the best TH-cam channel out there. The way you present, the content, tips, tricks, recommendations all simply superb.
I have a suggestion also, as being technician you give true information about some misunderstood topics, like this brakes, exhaust, etc. May be as for other technical parts of motorbike, which are generally not known correctly you can make small series to explain. Just an idea.
Thanks a lot for all your hard work...
Hi Savas, thank you for your kind words, the Multistrada is not forgotten 😉 In Fact it’s mentioned in my next video up this week on Friday.
I do miss my Muttley 🙋🏻♂️
I have a 2014 GS 1200. Does it apply to me?
Hi Ben , 2013/14 is the start point so I think yes, but take a picture of your chassis number and ask your dealership to confirm, if yours is water cooled I think it will be covered. Let me know how you get on.
Kind regards Carl
What happens if your driveshaft fails out of warranty, but under 60k kms.?
You still receive a replacement
In or out of warranty has no bearing on the replacement shaft, which is great news.
@@justthewayitis But if the driveshaft fails say at 25,000 miles, so you never reach the 37,500 miles for the free replacement, will they still replace it free of charge? Also is the new driveshaft upgraded from the original, or is it the same with the grease and maintenance schedule they should have applied to the original?
@fiveowaf454
If it fails at 25k then the next free one is in ( 25+36k miles) so at 61k miles time and continues for the life of the motorcycle.
As to which shaft they fit, you could ask your dealership if it’s the original design.
Carl
Hi Carl, once more you are top notch with your clear & valuable info to us GS 1250 owners. My question: why would I spend lots of money to have the splines lubricated if BMW will replace my shaft anyway? I have 11 000 km on the counter only on tarmac. Thanks, Marc, Quebec Canada 🇨🇦😉🏍
Hi Marc, good evening,well we each have to decide the answer to that question. Smile
But you raise a good point
👍🙋🏻♂️
See my update - It is worth the 'gamble' of a regrease as in my case I got everything replaced free of charge and if not you have peace of mind that the splines are all ok.
@@daveh1625 Where can I see your update? Thanks! 😉🏍
Marc, talk to your dealer. I got a copy of the Service Information Bulletin for North America (it was posted on ADVRider), and my reading is that the 20,000 km checks/regreasing of the splines are covered under warranty. To quote (from page 2 of Bulletin): "The replacement check and regrease of the cardan shaft (driveshaft) is covered by warranty and is offered to all customers that own a K5x motorcycle model year 2023 and older and unlimited miles or general service behavior of the customer."
@@markmayhew5487 Thank you sir, all my regards! 😉🏍🇨🇦